5/15/2012 - Hurricane safety in seven steps

With hurricane season around the corner, the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America is offering business owners and homeowners tips for how they can guard against damage that may result in a property insurance filing.

PCI is doing this through the release of a pamphlet that offers a variety of strategies that can be employed to minimize damage from hurricane conditions.

The brochure, "The Seven Ways To Safety," elaborates on the seven things business owners and homeowners should look at to ensure their property is wind-resistant. For major steps include ensuring roof-deck attachment, including a secondary water barrier, maintaining shingles or another roof covering and bracing any gabled roofs. Other tips include checking wall-to-roof connections, covering any openings, such as windows and skylights, and installing an impact-rated garage door.

Christopher Hackett, director of personal lines at PCI, said a little maintenance could go a long way toward protecting one's place of business or dwelling.

"Even doing some small things can make a big difference in how well a structure holds up in a storm," said Hackett. "We encourage residents in at-risk coastal areas to take some time before the season starts and shore up their homes and businesses."